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Leading Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Care

You never have to face health hurdles alone. When you need expert guidance for MS or another neuroimmunological condition, our team is here to provide the very best treatment options for you, with personal guidance at every step.

Highly Specialized Neuroimmunology Expertise

Neuroimmunology is a subspecialty of medicine that combines neuroscience (the study of the nervous system) with immunology, the study of the immune system. When the immune system attacks healthy nerve cells, our experts help determine if a neuroimmunology condition may be the root cause. Conditions we diagnose include multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOGAD).

Neuroimmunology Team Your Multiple Sclerosis and

Ryan Mizell, MD
Medical Director, Multiple Sclerosis Neurologist
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Anita Fletcher, MD
Medical Director Neuroscience Research
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Neuroimmunological Conditions and Symptoms

Understand the Conditions

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a chronic autoimmune disease of the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) that disrupts the exchange of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. With MS, there is an abnormal response of the body’s immune system directed against the central nervous system. Scientists believe MS is triggered by a combination of factors, such as environment, genetics, immunology and infections.

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Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO)

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO), is also known as Devic's disease. NMO is a rare condition where the immune system damages the spinal cord and the nerves of the eyes (optic nerves).

Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody Disease (MOGAD)

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOGAD) is an autoimmune disorder that shares many symptoms with MS. When antibodies attack the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein that insulates the nerves of the central nervous system (which consists of the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves) it can disrupt nerve signals in the body.

Recognize the Symptoms

Symptoms of MS are caused by central nervous system damage, and most often include:

  • Difficulty with coordination and balance
  • Loss of vision in one eye or double vision
  • Numbness and tingling
  • Problems with memory and concentration
  • Weakness

Symptoms of NMO vary by person and can also range from mild to severe and can include:

  • Bladder and bowel problems
  • Eye pain
  • Increased sensitivity to cold and heat
  • Loss of vision and/or colors appearing less vivid
  • Pain in the arms or legs
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Tight and painful muscle spasms in the arms and legs
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness in the arms and legs

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, changes in vision (optic neuritis) and symptoms caused by spinal cord inflammation (transverse myelitis) are common in MOGAD. Symptoms caused by optic neuritis include:

  • Loss or blurring of vision in one or both eyes
  • Loss of color vision
  • Eye pain

Symptoms caused by transverse myelitis include:

  • Weakness, numbness or loss of sensation
  • Paralysis
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control or difficulty emptying the bladder
  • Spasticity (increased muscle tone or stiffness in the arms or legs)
  • Shooting pain or tingling in the neck, back or abdomen
Get the Diagnosis You Need

It can be overwhelming to get diagnosed with a neuroimmunological condition. Rest assured we have guided many patients through diagnosis and treatment and beyond, and will help ensure you have the resources you need and the support you deserve. Our team is passionate about caring for your whole health in body, mind and spirit.

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Our Locations, Your Options

As one of the most comprehensive neurology care networks in Florida, every one of our Central Florida locations contributes to the strength of the AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute. Ask your dedicated Care Coordinator to help you explore your options and find the right fit, so you are in the best setting to get the care you need.

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